What is an LCSW?
An LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. In the state of Arizona it requires a Master’s of Social Work with an additional 3200 hours of supervised clinical experience.

How long is an appointment?
Appointments are generally scheduled for 50 minutes. There are some situations, ex. Couples, that a longer appointment may be suggested.

How often do I need to come?
Appointments are generally scheduled on a weekly basis.There are two primary reasons why this is most beneficial.  Meeting weekly benefits the building of the therapeutic relationship.  Weekly sessions also make it easier to continue to build on previous sessions, a little like math.  There are some situations that may require meeting more than one time weekly, ex. someone struggling with a difficult traumatic situation. On occasion, or as we move towards ending treatment, we may agree to meet on a bi-weekly basis.

How long will therapy take?
The length of time someone will attend therapy varies greatly. There are some people who come a few times and feel they have received what they needed and stop. For the majority of people I work with it usually takes more than just a few sessions. The total length of time will depend on many variables: what your therapeutic needs are, previous treatment, support system, ongoing stress, etc.

How will I know when I’m done?
Together, you and I will develop treatment goals. Throughout treatment we will monitor your progress towards achieving those goals. and determine if there are additional goals you would like to achieve.

Are the sessions private?
State law mandates that all communication between you and your therapist remain completely confidential. There are exceptions to confidentiality in the case of child abuse, elder abuse, and imminent risk of harm to self or others.

Why don’t you take insurance?
When you use insurance for mental health, you must be given a psychiatric diagnosis (depression, general anxiety, bipolar, etc). This diagnosis becomes a permanent part of your medical history. The insurance companies determine which diagnosis’ warrant treatment and how many sessions you can receive. There are many people I see who may not warrant a diagnosis. I don’t believe this should keep them from seeing a therapist to help them improve some aspect of their life.
Privacy is another concern when using insurance. The information sent to the insurance company is viewed by a number of people who make decisions about your care.
If you would like to be reimbursed by your insurance company, I will be very happy to provide you with the information you need to submit.